Top Ten Most Inspiring Stories Of The 2000s

This past decade has had its share of mishaps, to be sure, but here at Impact, we think the following inspirational moments are enough to make even the most cynical among us a bit more optimistic. Check out our list, then be sure to click the "PARTICIPATE" button to submit your own!

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Ten Most Inspiring Stories of the 2000s

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U.S. Airways pilot C.B. "Sully" Sullenberger became a household name overnight after he successfully landed a plane in the Hudson River. His story of heroism spawned a series of TV appearances and a book about Flight 1549.

For at least one day in 2001, there were no Republicans or Democrats. The nation came together on 9/11 like never before, and the volunteers, rescue workers, and civil servants who gave their lives on that day were an undeniable inspiration.

Diagnosed with incurable pancreatic cancer in 2006, Randy Pausch spent the remainder of his life delivering "The Last Lecture," an inspirational speech on life and achieving one's childhood dreams.

Arizona Cardinals safety Pat Tillman gave up a lucrative contract in the NFL to serve the military in Afghanistan, in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. He was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan in 2004, and his legacy remains one of commitment and dedication.

One of the heroes of the mainstream LGBT movement, Gene Robinson became the first openly gay, non-celibate bishop of a major Christian church in 2004. His service to the Episcopal Church in New Hampshire has resulted in criticism and even death threats.

Though a well-staged media moment, Susan Boyle surprised millions of viewers with her miraculous rendition of "I Dreamed A Dream." Watching this video can make you feel like even your most fantastical dreams are possible.

Romanian-born professor Liviu Librescu saved the lives of several of his students during 2007's Virginia Tech massacre. He was shot and killed during the attack, and posthumously awarded the Order of the Star of Romania.

Beliefnet named Muhammad Ali the "Most Inspiring Person of 2001" for his dedication to resolving American fears of Islam post-9/11. "I am a Muslim. I am American," he said. ""Whoever performed or is behind the terrorist attacks in the United States of America does not represent Islam. God is not behind assassins."

Remember at the end of "Star Wars" when Han Solo flew in to blow up the ships chasing Luke and save the day? That's what it felt like when Clinton went into North Korea and came out with Laura Ling and Euna Lee, two journalists detained in the communist nation for five months.

Though his first win came in 1999, Lance Armstrong shattered records in the 2000s, winning seven consecutive Tours de France, after defeating testicular cancer. His foundation has since given over $14 million to cancer research.